Things to do at Parrish Ranch in Oak Glen, California
Introduction
Oak Glen is home to a few “anchor” apple farms that make up the bulk of the businesses that you can visit in the area. A common sentiment from business owners in Oak Glen is that since the events of 2020 and beyond (Covid, the devastating El Dorado Fire, and multiple destructive mudslides), tourism has struggled to rebound. So read on and consider visiting Oak Glen, particularly in the “off season” when businesses could use it most, and learn about things to do at Parrish Ranch!
Where Is Parrish Ranch?
Parrish Pioneer Ranch, located at 38561 Oak Glen Rd, is a working apple farm that is open year round. Dating back to 1866, some of the oldest structures in Oak Glen can be found here. You can read more here about the history of the ranch. The ranch is anchored by the big red barn; additionally you can find an antique store, gift shops, Haus Bistro German restaurant and Bier Garten, an art gallery, some farm animals to view, and a lovely picnic area.
Hours vary throughout the year, and is primarily open on weekends only (Friday-Sunday) when it is not Apple Season. For updated hours, check out their home page.
What to Visit at Parrish Ranch
The cornerstone of Parrish Ranch is the big red barn store:
Featuring original adobe walls inside, you can expect to find things like bagged apples from the ranch, cider, wine, local handmade candies, jams and jellies, gifts, and more. Here are a few fun facts about the wares you can expect to find:
- All apples are grown and bagged right on site, and the orchards are home to 18-21 different varieties
- Cider is pressed on site, with no additives – the cider is the pure juice of pressed apples
- Candy from the candy counter is homemade locally in Yucaipa (with the exception of the sugar-free varieties)
- Pies are handmade locally in Yucaipa
- Wine is fruit based and imported from Salem, Oregon. You can attend a wine tasting right on site! Don’t miss out on the honey wine, which is the most popular.
Enjoy Fresh Apple Treats
Inside the barn you can find apple burritos, apple butter, cider, pies (seasonally), and a ton of apple-themed gifts and decor. Here are a few pictures from around the barn:
Relax at the Picnic Area
Recently re-done with new grass, there is a nice picnic spot on site (picnic tables coming soon):
Antique Shop
The antique shop was built in the 1860’s and was the home of the Enoch Parrish. On this particular visit, the antique shop was not opened, but it is definitely worth checking out! I am told that it is rumored to be haunted. If you want to see inside the shop or like ghost hunting videos, you can check out this or this video (warning: don’t watch if you don’t like spooky things!!).
The Haus Bistro and Bier Garten
New since 2025, this sit-down restaurant serves German and American food and has a beautiful outdoor patio. They host a ton of fun events such as yoga, car shows, Octoberfests, 80’s nights, dog shows and more. Check out their Facebook Page to keep up on the happenings.
Gift Shops
Granny’s Attic and Etc. are quaint little gift shops containing toys, sweatshirts, dishes, Oak Glen themed gifts, and more. Here’s a quick peek inside Granny’s Attic:
Art Gallery
Upstairs above the barn is an art gallery featuring paintings of local scenes as well as worldwide attractions. Be sure to check it out!
Farm Animals
While there is not a petting zoo, there are some animals that you can view on site including a llama (or alpaca?) and some peacocks:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Parrish Ranch free to visit?
Yes, Parrish Ranch is free and so is the parking
When is apple season?
Apple season is traditionally late August through January
Can you pick apples at Parrish Ranch?
No, there is no U-Pick, but the apples sold in the barn are the ones grown right there at the ranch.
Is Parrish Ranch dog-friendly?
Dogs are welcome on leashes on the grounds in general, but they are not allowed on the picnic grounds or in the shops.
How long should I plan to spend at Parrish Ranch?
If you are visiting Oak Glen for the day, you can easily visit everything there is to see at Parrish Ranch in an hour or 2, possibly longer if you plan on eating at the Haus Bistro which is a sit-down restaurant.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a peaceful and authentic Oak Glen experience, Parrish Ranch is well worth a visit. Unlike some of the larger destinations in the area, Parrish Ranch offers a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can slow down, enjoy the mountain scenery, and experience Oak Glen’s agricultural heritage. Whether you’re shopping antiques, sipping cider, enjoying a picnic beneath the trees, or simply taking in the beautiful views, the ranch provides a memorable escape from the city. It’s an ideal stop for families, couples, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the charm that has made Oak Glen a favorite Southern California destination for generations.
Check out some of my other posts about visiting Oak Glen: